“There will be no relaxation of visa rules for the cricket fans. We cannot compromise our security as it is our prime concern. So, whoever seeks a visa, has to name a local sponsor,” a Home Ministry official said.
Reportedly, twelve Pakistanis disappeared in India during the 2007 series and the reason behind their disappearance still has to be determined.
There is no set quota of visas but all applicants would be required to present proof, including a copy of the series ticket purchased that they are visiting India for the much awaited series, scheduled to be played between December 25 and January 6, after which eligible applicants will be issued a visa.
The series would comprise three ODIs and two Twenty20 Internationals.
The ODI matches will be played in Chennai, Kolkata and New Delhi and the Twenty20 games in Bangalore and Ahmedabad.
It is noteworthy that the new visa agreement, signed by then Indian External Affairs Minister SM Krishna and Interior Minister Rehman Malik in Islamabad on September 8, eases curbs on issuing visas to traders, elderly people, tourists, pilgrims, members of civil society and children.
The Home Ministry will soon discuss with governments of Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Karnataka, Gujarat and the Delhi Police on various security related issues at the venues and how to ensure fool-proof security during the matches.
A number of high-level Pakistani dignitaries are also expected to visit India to watch some of the matches.
The rivals have not played a series since Pakistan’s tour of India in 2007, after cricket ties were suspended following the 2008 Mumbai attacks.
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